University of Exeter tees off at new facility

Already rated as one of the best golfing Universities in the UK, winning the 2013 BUCS Premier League and National Championship, the £100,000 new centre marks an impressive step change in Exeter’s golfing provision.

Designed by market leaders Tour Greens Europe, the 50m x 30m area features a 250m² Pro-tour standard practice green, 120m² putting green, and two golf zones.

Standing at one of the many teeing off points, what’s striking is the number of possibilities available. Bespoke landscaping combines synthetic greens with natural rough areas to create an incredibly varied array of challenges, including a tricky sweep past the specially designed eco-bunker.

Student teams and members of the public will have the opportunity to practice an almost unlimited number of shots in any weather, without needing to commit to a membership, or travel far from the city.

“From the University’s point of view, it’s great that our students will have somewhere on-site where they can practice between lectures.” Commented Performance Golf Manager Craig Townsend.  “We plan for our performance squad players to be practicing here three to four times a week.

“Short-game can make up to 70-80% of golfer’s shots, so it is a crucial element of the sport, and this is undoubtedly the best way for us to improve a golfer’s course performance, in a controlled environment that we can use at any time of the year.

However, it is not just students expected to benefit from the elaborate array of tees and holes. The centre will also be accessible by the wider community later in the summer, with a golf professional on-hand to give lessons and even run children’s activities in holiday periods.

“We have worked closely with the R&A on this project with the aim of making golf in Exeter more widely accessible.” continued Craig “Joining a golf club can sometimes be an expensive and daunting prospect for less experienced players, so we want to provide an environment that is affordable and where you can easily just turn up and play.

“Already at the Sports Park you can book a tennis court, squash court or football pitch so why not do the same for golf?”

“Up to six players will be able to use the facility at a time and in the long-term we envisage professional coaches providing instruction for everyone from complete beginners to elite county golfers.”

The Centre is set to officially open on 15 May, annual memberships and pay-as-you go access will be available later in the summer. For further information please contact Craig Townsend on 01392 726249.